Dog - Lyme Disease

What is Lyme disease?

This disease, common in North America, does occur in Britain. It is caused by a spirochete bacterium called Borrelia which is carried by certain ticks which, when affected, can spread the disease to dogs by their bites.

Can we catch this disease?

Yes, if we are bitten by a tick infected with borrelia. Having a dog with Lyme disease is not a hazard provided the environment is entirely tick free. Thus tick prevention is of paramount importance, both to you and your dog.

What are the signs?

People as well as dogs are affected by Lyme disease, (borreliosis) if bitten by an infected tick. With us, like dogs, it can cause infective arthritis.

When people are bitten by an infected tick, a rash and swelling develops around the bite within a short time, making it easier to diagnose initially than in animals. Dogs (and cats) do not develop the early rash.

The first sign in dogs and cats is often generalised joint pain. They are often described as ‘walking on eggshells’. The dog is often off food and has a fever. This pain and swelling of the joints can result in permanent arthritis. Some dogs can be infected with Lyme disease organisms for over a year before finally showing any symptoms. With others shifting lameness can be a sign of the infection.

How is Lyme disease diagnosed?

Dogs developing swollen joints, lameness and fever particularly following a visit to a Lyme disease area could be affected. Other diseases can show similar signs and therefore blood tests are needed for confirmation of diagnosis. Sometimes fluid from the affected joint also has to be examined for a positive diagnosis since false negatives can occur for a variety of reasons.

How is Lyme disease treated?

Since this is caused by a bacterium, it can be controlled with appropriate antibiotics. Usually long courses are required to completely eradicate the organism. In known Lyme disease areas the dog can of course be reinfected following further tick bites.

How can I prevent my dog from getting borreliosis?

Prevention involves ensuring your dog is not exposed to bites from infected ticks. Ticks are found in grassy, wooded, and sandy areas. They wait on surrounding vegetation from which they can transfer to passing animals or people. Keeping animals from thick undergrowth reduces the risk. Dogs should be kept on paths when walked in woods or areas of tall grass. And carefully groomed after being in these areas to remove any ticks in the hair coat.

Tick control

Prevention is better than cure and effective tick control should be practised. Treatments involve shampoos, sprays and spot-on preparations and we will be more than happy to advise.

Is there a vaccine that will protect my dog from Lyme disease?

A vaccine is available. Please speak to your veterinarian about the vaccine.